Kickstart Ventures is the Philippines' largest corporate venture capital firm, actively investing in tech startups that provide sustainable and inclusive solutions to real-world problems. It was founded in March 2012 as a subsidiary of Globe Telecom. Based in Makati City, it operates as a strategic arm for Globe and its parent company, Ayala Corporation. Kickstart Ventures has managed a substantial amount of capital across multiple funds, supporting early to growth-stage startups across Southeast Asia and other global innovation hubs.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | March 2012 |
| Headquarters | Makati, Philippines |
| Founders | Subsidiary of Globe Telecom |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Not publicly disclosed |
| Key Investors | Ayala Corporation, Globe Telecom, Singtel |
| Industry | Venture Capital |
| Number of Employees | Approximately 3 core team members (Tracxn) |
Kickstart Ventures was launched in 2012 by Globe Telecom with an initial fund of $2.5 million. The aim was to nurture and catalyze the technology entrepreneurship movement within the Philippines. As the venture capital arm of Ayala Corporation and Globe Telecom, its goal was to create a dynamic community of technopreneurs and help scale innovative startups. Early on, the firm emphasized investing in seed to growth-stage startups not just domestically but also internationally, establishing a robust portfolio across different regions. This facilitated the company's ascent in the VC industry, setting a precedence in the Philippine startup ecosystem by strategically supporting tech startups that are relevant to their core business.
Kickstart Ventures operates as a crucial catalyst in the Southeast Asian venture capital scene. It carries out its investment thesis with a focus on technology that aligns with its stakeholders' interests within the Ayala Corporation and Globe Telecom. The firm's business model includes:
Kickstart Ventures continues to shape the venture capital landscape in Southeast Asia, leveraging its substantial fund management and strategic partnerships to support its portfolio companies. It stands out for its unique approach to corporate venture capital, focusing on long-term ecosystem development rather than short-term pitch events. The firm has carved out a niche by investing in disruptive technologies and leveraging the growing digital economy in the Philippines and neighboring regions. As of 2025, it remains a key player, actively making investments and supporting innovation in the tech landscape (BusinessWorld Online).
Kickstart Ventures has proven to be a formidable force in the venture capital industry within Southeast Asia, with a particular focus on the Philippines. Its strategy of embedding into the ecosystem rather than relying solely on traditional VC methodologies highlights its innovative approach to venture sourcing. As it manages funds and partnerships that support diverse growth-stage startups, Kickstart Ventures' potential for sustained impact and growth in the tech industry remains significant. Its ongoing commitment to AI, fintech, and sustainability positions it well for future challenges and opportunities in global tech innovation landscapes.